Huai'an: A Hidden Jiangsu Gem | Generated by AI
Why Huai’an in Jiangsu is Worth the Hype (Especially on WeChat Videos)
Huai’an (淮安), a gem in central Jiangsu Province, China, blends ancient history with modern charm, making it a frequent star in WeChat’s short video channels. Those viral clips you’re seeing? They’re likely showcasing its photogenic canals, lantern-lit ancient towns, and mouthwatering street food—perfect for quick, scenic scrolls. As a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy and a key stop on the Grand Canal, Huai’an punches above its weight with rich culture, fertile landscapes, and underrated vibes. It’s not as touristy as nearby Nanjing or Suzhou, but that’s part of its appeal: authentic, walkable, and surprisingly vibrant. Here’s what stands out.
1. Stunning Waterways and Ancient Towns
Huai’an sits on the historic Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, China’s lifeline for over 1,400 years, with serene rivers, lakes like Hongze (the country’s fourth-largest freshwater lake), and picturesque bridges. The flat Jianghuai plain adds to the postcard-perfect scenery—think misty mornings over willow-lined paths.
- Hexia Ancient Town: A restored Ming-Qing era village with cobblestone streets, teahouses, and boat rides. It’s a WeChat favorite for its golden-hour glow and cultural performances.
- Liyunhe Cultural Corridor: Evening strolls here buzz with food stalls and light shows along the canal—pure Instagram (or WeChat) magic.
2. Legendary History and Famous Natives
This city’s been a cultural crossroads since Neolithic times, once dividing northern and southern China. It’s the birthplace of icons like:
- Zhou Enlai, China’s long-serving Premier—visit his childhood home and memorial hall for a poignant dive into 20th-century history (free entry, swan-filled lake nearby).
- Wu Cheng’en, author of Journey to the West (the Monkey King epic)—his former residence feels like stepping into a fable.
- Han Xin, a Han Dynasty general who rose from rags to riches.
Sites like the Grand Canal Museum unpack 2,000+ years of engineering feats, while the Qing Governor’s Mansion offers a glimpse of imperial life. It’s a “living museum” vibe, as one traveler put it.
3. World-Class Huaiyang Cuisine
Huai’an is the heart of Huaiyang cooking—one of China’s “four great cuisines”—famous for fresh, delicate flavors: think steamed lion’s head meatballs, salted duck, and river prawns. It’s lighter than Sichuan spice but just as addictive. The city dubs itself the “World Crayfish Capital” (thanks to its lakes), and street eats like yangchun noodles pop up everywhere. Pro tip: Hit the Huai’an Food Culture Museum for interactive tastings—it’s a foodie’s dream.
4. Mild Climate, Easy Access, and Chill Economy
With a humid subtropical climate (warm summers, crisp falls, 1,900+ sunny hours yearly), spring/autumn are ideal for exploring. It’s a grain powerhouse (“world’s granary” since ancient times) and a booming port city with an international airport, high-speed rail, and even a tram line. GDP per capita is solid for the region, fueling modern perks like sleek malls without losing soul.
Why It’s Blowing Up on WeChat Videos
Recent TV dramas filmed here (boosting spots like the canal) and tourism pushes have made Huai’an a short-video sensation. City walk vlogs highlight its “hidden gem” status—affordable, uncrowded, and visually stunning. Expect more as Jiangsu promotes its canal heritage.
If you’re planning a trip, start with a canal cruise and end with crayfish under the stars. It’s the kind of place that feels discovered, not overrun.
References
- Huai’an Wikipedia Overview
- Top Things to Do in Huai’an (TripAdvisor)
- Huai’an: A Serious China Traveler’s Must-See (Meer)
- Things to Do in Huai’an (Trip.com)